Primorye's boating boom clashes with soaring costs and berth shortages

Boat and yacht owners in Primorye are struggling with soaring costs and a severe shortage of mooring space. Rising fees and maintenance expenses have pushed some to sell their vessels, while others seek cheaper storage abroad. Despite the challenges, the region’s passion for maritime leisure remains undiminished, with nearly 40,000 registered small boats as of May 2026. The closure of Ulysses Bay has worsened the berth shortage, forcing many into the already crowded Novik Bay. Monthly mooring fees for a 50-foot sailboat in Vladivostok have climbed from 130,000 to 150,000 rubles. Some large-yacht owners now relocate their vessels to South Korea for winter, where berthing is more affordable.

Maintenance costs have also risen sharply. Servicing a standard engine in the Russian Far East now ranges between 5,000 and 15,000 rubles per season. Preparing a 12-metre sailboat for the season can cost 15,000 to 20,000 rubles, excluding consumables. Replacing a propeller alone can set owners back 5,000 to 25,000 rubles, depending on the material. The shortage of imported parts has hit Vladivostok’s yacht owners particularly hard. Many vessels in the region rely on European-made components, which have become harder to source. As a result, some owners are choosing to sell their boats rather than face escalating expenses. Despite the financial strain, demand for maritime leisure remains high. As of May 18, 2026, Primorye has 38,472 registered small vessels, reflecting the region’s enduring love for boating.

With mooring fees up by 40% in some areas and maintenance costs rising, boat owners in Primorye face tough decisions. Some are selling their vessels, while others look abroad for cheaper storage solutions. The region’s boating community continues to grow, but financial pressures are reshaping how and where people keep their boats.